The Sharp distance sensors are a popular choice for many projects that require accurate distance measurements. This IR sensor is more economical than sonar rangefinders, yet it provides much better performance than other IR alternatives. Interfacing to most microcontrollers is straightforward: the single analog output can be connected to an analog-to-digital converter for taking distance measurements, or the output can be connected to a comparator for threshold detection. The detection range of this version is approximately 4 cm to 30 cm (1.5? to 12?); a plot of distance versus output voltage is shown below.
The GP2Y0A41SK0F uses a 3-pin JST connector that works with our 3-pin JST cables for Sharp distance sensors (not included) as shown in the top picture on the right. It is also simple to solder three wires to the sensor where the connector pins are mounted (see the lower picture to the right). When looking at the back, the three connections from left to right are power, ground, and the output signal.
This product replaces the original GP2D120XJ00F. The newer GP2Y0A41SK0F has a much higher update rate and much lower average current draw than the older GP2D120, but it is otherwise identical to the GP2D120 and can be used as a drop-in replacement for those modules.
